Stay of Execution for Laman Street Figs

International Tree Day at Civic Park last Sunday was a great success and a timely reminder of what Newie has to lose. Congratulations to the organisers of the day and to supporters for gaining another successful recission motion to stop council from destroying our town's figs.

Behind the Iron Curtain

Citizens of Newcastle are separated from their civic fountain, cultural centre, galleries and fig trees by an iron curtain installed by the town's administrators in a scene reminiscent of the division of Berlin after World War 2.

V is for Victory! Kids attending International Tree Day at Civic Park in Newcastle want their town back. As Churchill would say: "We will fight them on the beaches, on the shores ...we will never surrender!". More info at http://saveourfigs.wordpress.com/

The Kids Are Alright

Success at last for kids needing a new skate park! Now relocated to Empire Park opposite Bar Beach its not as accessible by public transport as the one at Newcastle Beach but design-wise its a hit with stunt bikes, skaters and learners alike. Newcastle Council got it right on this one in terms of popularity among users and free street ballet for spectators. What next for our town's budget priorities - better public facilities for the age-impaired and those with disabilities perhaps?

Makeover of the Convict Bogey Hole Newcastle

Newcastle Herald has just unveiled the grand plan for our Bogey Hole and its looking like an engineering eyesore with plenty to frighten the horses. While maintenance and repairs to the Bogey Hole are welcomed by our community, the decision makers should follow a minimalist option which blends with the environment and doesn't create new hazards.

Those proposed metal lower platforms cantilevered over the water look sharp and dangerous for bathers trying to get in and out of the pool. Its great to do some needed repairs but can't the designers just stick to making the stairway less slippery and forget the grand engineering statements? Perhaps the proposed stairs would be okay if they skip the ugly lower platforms jutting out into the water - it would look more harmonious and be less of an obstacle course for users. Perhaps engineers and designers need to work under the supervision of artists and citizens who use the space.